Designing a custom engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions a couple can make — but one of the first questions everyone asks is:

“How long does it take?”

The truth is: not as long as most people think.

Thanks to modern technology, expert craftsmanship, and an efficient in-house design team, creating a custom engagement ring in 2026 is smoother, faster, and more exciting than ever before.

At Gemma’s Jewelers, our designer Amy has turned the custom process into a seamless experience. Whether the request is simple and elegant or highly detailed and one-of-a-kind, every ring moves through a clear timeline designed to balance creativity, precision, and heirloom-level craftsmanship.

Here’s a complete breakdown of how long each step typically takes — and what you can expect from the moment you start.

⭐ The Average Timeline: 3–6 Weeks From Start to Finish

Most custom engagement rings at Gemma’s take 3 to 6 weeks, depending on complexity, diamond selection, and the customer’s approval speed.

Here’s how that timeline breaks down.

Step 1: Initial Consultation (Same Day to 2 Days)

Your journey begins with a conversation.

During your consultation, you and Amy will explore:

• Your vision

• Inspiration photos

• Diamond or gemstone options

• Metal choices

• Budget

• Custom features (hidden halos, vintage details, engravings, etc.)

Time estimate:
✔ Same-day appointment availability
✔ Consultation lasts 20–45 minutes

If you walk in with screenshots and ideas, you can leave with a clear design direction on day one.

Step 2: Design Phase & CAD Rendering (3–7 Days)

Once you approve the concept, Amy begins creating your ring digitally.

Using advanced CAD software, she designs a 3D rendering of your ring from multiple angles. This ensures:

• The proportions are perfect

• The diamond sits securely

• Every detail matches your vision

Customers love this part because they can see their ring before it exists — and request adjustments if needed.

Time estimate:
✔ 3–7 days to receive your first rendering
✔ 1–3 additional days for revisions (if needed)

Step 3: Wax or Resin Model (Optional – 2–4 Days)

For clients who want to physically preview the ring’s size, height, and feel, we can create a wax or resin model.

You can try it on before production begins, which makes this step extremely helpful for custom or intricate designs.

Time estimate:
✔ 2–4 days
✔ Optional, adds time only if requested

Step 4: Casting & Stone Setting (2–3 Weeks)

Once the design is approved, your ring moves into production.

Our master jewelers:

• Cast your ring in the metal of your choice

• Polish and refine every curve

• Hand-set each diamond or gemstone

• Inspect structural integrity under magnification

Complex designs (micro pavé, hidden halos, multiple stones) may take slightly longer.

Time estimate:
✔ 7–14 days depending on complexity

Step 5: Final Inspection & Pickup (1–3 Days)

Amy personally inspects every finished custom ring, ensuring:

• Every stone is secure

• Prongs are perfect

• Finishing is smooth and even

• The ring meets Gemma’s heirloom quality standards

Once it passes inspection, we’ll notify you that your piece is ready for pickup.

Time estimate:
✔ 1–3 days

🌟 Total Time: 3–6 Weeks on Average

Here’s a quick overview:

• Consultation → same day

• CAD design → 3–7 days

• Revisions → 1–3 days

• Wax model (optional) → 2–4 days

• Casting & setting → 14–21 days

• Final inspection → 1–3 days

Most couples receive their finished custom ring well within 4 weeks, but more intricate designs may reach 6 weeks.

If you’re working with a proposal date, we can plan accordingly — many customers come in with a timeline, and we build the process around it.

💛 Why the Custom Process at Gemma’s Is Faster (and Better)

Not all jewelers create custom rings the same way. Here’s why our timeline is so efficient:

✔ In-house designer (Amy) — no outsourcing

Quicker turnaround, direct communication, and immediate updates.

✔ On-site CAD and design tools

No delays from external design houses.

✔ Access to diamonds and gemstones immediately

Fast selection and sourcing.

✔ Local craftsmanship

Our production partners are local in Orange County and work closely with us — no long shipping delays.

✔ Transparent updates

You’re never left wondering where your ring is in the process.

💍 Thinking About Designing a Custom Ring? Start Early If You Can

While 3–6 weeks is standard, holidays, proposal seasons, and Valentine’s Day can fill up quickly. If you have a specific date in mind, the earlier you start, the more relaxed and enjoyable the experience will be.

Designing a ring should feel exciting — never rushed.

❤️ Begin Your Custom Design Journey

Whether you already have a clear vision, or you’re starting with a feeling, Amy can help bring your dream ring to life.

Bring your inspiration. Bring your ideas.
Or simply bring your love story.

We’ll guide you every step of the way.